PHIL 1041 - Introduction to Logic

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture None Lab None
Course Description: This course introduces students to the formal study of reasoning using the concepts and techniques of symbolic logic. Topics covered include representing the underlying logical structure of English sentences and arguments, testing whether arguments have good form, identifying valid and invalid argument forms, and recognizing common examples of bad reasoning. While it can be abstract and challenging, learning symbolic logic does have its practical side: it may lead to a deeper appreciation of the uses and abuses of language, more careful and critical reading skills, and a better understanding of how to craft well-reasoned writing.
MnTC Goals
4 Mathematics/Logical Reasoning

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: None

Major Content

1. Characteristics of arguments
2. Formal logical systems
3. Tests for validity and invalidity
4. Formal deductive proof methods

1. Symbolize arguments into formal logical systems.
2. Test symbolized arguments for validity and invalidity.
3. Identify valid and invalid arguments and argument forms.
4. Identify formal fallacies.
5. Complete a logical proof.

04. 02. Clearly express mathematical/logical ideas in writing.

04. 03. Explain what constitutes a valid mathematical/logical argument(proof).

04. 04. Apply higher-order problem-solving and/or modeling strategies.

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